Symptoms may not appear until esophageal cancer is in advanced stages. If you any experience symptoms, do not assume it is due to cancer. Many symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a gastric ulcer. However, it is still important to discuss them with your doctor. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes for both cancer and other health conditions.

Difficulty Swallowing and Weight Loss

The most common symptoms of esophageal cancer are difficulty swallowing (dysphasia) and weight loss. Dysphagia may be with or without pain. As food moves down the esophagus, there may be a sensation that food is stuck. There may be a tight feeling in the chest behind the breastbone or in the throat. Over time, it becomes progressively harder to swallow. Solid foods will be difficult at first, then semi-solid foods, then even liquids will be difficult.

As eating becomes more difficult, the body does not get all the nutrients it needs. Noticeable weight loss occurs in almost all people who have esophageal cancer in a period of months.

Other Symptoms

Since esophageal cancer is generally found in advanced stages, there may be other symptoms in addition to the ones listed above. These may include:

Hoarseness—A nerve in the chest that controls your vocal cords may stop working as the cancer grows, resulting in a hoarse voice. This is called laryngeal nerve palsy.

Chronic cough—From lung irritation or irritation from acid reflux.

Hiccups—As the cancer spreads into the chest, it may press on a nerve that causes hiccups.

Aspiration—Food, fluids, and stomach acids can be inhaled into the lungs. Aspiration causes violent coughing. A complication of aspiration is
pneumonia.

Pain—Swallowing may become painful over time. Tumors that press on a nerves may cause pain in the abdomen, chest, or lower back. Metastatic cancer can cause bone pain.

Bleeding—Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract may make stool appear black and tarry. It is also possible to vomit blood.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.